Noem, Varilek Debate Taxes, Work Ethic, Farm Bill

October 12, 2012, 2:54 PM

Noem | Varilek

RAPID CITY, SD -

In a rare face-to-face meeting, Republican Rep. Kristi Noem and Democratic challenger Matt Varilek sparred over tax policies, health care and the congresswoman's attendance record in committees in their second debate of the campaign.

The two candidates for South Dakota's lone seat in the U.S. House often ignored the moderator to engage in a spirited give and take at the debate sponsored by the Rapid City Journal.

Varilek says he supports some spending cuts, but taxes should also be raised on the wealthy to limit cuts to essential programs.

Noem says she does not support tax increases in a shaky economy.

Varilek repeated his charges that Noem has missed many House committee meetings. Noem says she doesn't waste time in meetings that have nothing to do with South Dakota.